54. Sunshine Meadows to Assiniboine

Distance: 29 km
Elevation: climbed and descended 1000 m according to GPS

July 25, we started our hike in to Assiniboine Provincial Park BC from the Sunshine Meadows lodge where the shuttle from the parking lot dropped us off. This was to be a 5-day hiking camping adventure organized by Margaret. We carried only our day packs and flew the camping gear and extra food in by helicopter. We divided into 2 groups right away so one group could wait for Margaret who had missed the Sunshine turnoff.

The trail was smooth, through wide, green meadows and offered periodic views of Mt. Assiniboine, the king of the region. It was good to leave the lodge where the mosquitoes were abundant and vicious. The green grass and bright blue sky were encouraging markers for success on this long hike.

We saw a rise before us, was that the pass already? No, it was a climb over a ridge to look over Howard Lake.

And then on the other side a steep descent down to the lake and Assiniboine in the distance.

The meadows, mountains and good trail made the walking pleasant.

At about 10 km, we came to Citadel Pass and noted the citadel-like rock beside us.

Mt Assiniboine was getting bigger, we were making progress. It was now in the clouds, would our sunshine hold?

Many hikers backpack in and stop at Porcupine Camp. Our trail passed above the drop down to the camp and water.

The next remarkable feature was the Valley of the Rocks which extended a fair distance and was aptly named.

Around here at around 5pm it started to rain. Not pour but enough to wear rain gear, get wet feet and blisters. It also produced puddles in our way so that we were forced to contribute to the trail braiding.

By the time we got to Og Lake, another campground, the sun was shining again although not all over.

Another 7 km and we were at the lodge to pick up our backpacks and do the final km to the campground where Herm had hopefully already put up our tent.

Lake Magog and Mt Assiniboine from the lodge were beautiful but even more so as we carried our packs around the lake and walked in closer. Yes, my tent was up!